The Ultimate Spring Cleaning Guide for Texas Homes

Spring Cleaning in Texas Is a Different Animal

Generic spring cleaning guides were written for four-season climates. Texas doesn't have four seasons in the traditional sense. By March, cedar and oak pollen are coating every outdoor surface. By April, air conditioners are running daily. By May, it already feels like summer. Spring cleaning in Texas has to account for all of that.

Before You Start: Pre-A/C Checklist

Do these tasks before the A/C starts running full-time — once it does, the air circulation will spread whatever is on surfaces throughout the home.

• Replace all HVAC filters (use MERV 11 or higher if anyone in the house has allergies)
• Clean all return air vents and supply registers
• Wipe down ceiling fan blades — they'll be switching from winter heat-pushing to summer cooling mode
• Check and clean dryer vent from the outside — lint buildup is a fire hazard year-round
• Inspect window seals and weatherstripping before cooling season begins

Kitchen

• Deep clean inside the oven — grease buildup from winter cooking
• Degrease the range hood filter by soaking in hot water and dish soap
• Clean refrigerator coils (bottom or back)
• Wipe inside all cabinets and pantry shelves
• Descale the dishwasher with a citric acid cleaner
• Clean out and organize the freezer

Bathrooms

• Scrub tile grout — humidity from the past wet season accelerates mildew growth
• Descale showerheads and faucets using white vinegar
• Check caulk around the tub and shower — replace if cracked or discolored
• Clean exhaust fans to keep humidity moving out effectively during summer

Bedrooms

• Wash all bedding, including duvet covers, pillows, and mattress protectors
• Flip or rotate mattresses
• Vacuum mattress surface to remove dust mites and allergens
• Clean window screens — they're about to work overtime keeping bugs out
• Wipe down closet shelves and reorganize seasonal clothing

Living Areas

• Clean upholstery and rugs — pollen and dust settle deep into fabric fibers through winter
• Wipe down all blinds — horizontal blinds are notorious pollen traps
• Clean fireplace if applicable — chimney, firebox, and surrounding hearth
• Dust and wipe all baseboards and crown molding

Outdoor / Entryway

• Power wash or scrub front entryway, driveway, and back patio — pollen coats everything
• Clean outdoor furniture before the season starts
• Inspect and clean gutters — spring rains in Houston can overwhelm clogged gutters fast
• Treat garage floor for stains and moisture from winter

Cedar Fever Season Cleaning Tips

Cedar and mountain cedar pollen season in central and east Texas runs from December through March, with peak counts in January and February. If anyone in the household has allergies, these extra steps make a real difference:

• Wipe down all horizontal surfaces weekly during peak season
• Leave shoes at the door to avoid tracking pollen through the home
• Shower before bed to remove pollen from skin and hair
• Run an air purifier with a HEPA filter in bedrooms
• Keep windows closed on high-pollen count days